set out for
phrasal verb.phrasal verb. to start a journey toward a specific place.
phrasal verb. to depart or begin a journey with a specific destination in mind. The verb is intransitive in its core movement sense, but the preposition 'for' introduces the destination object.
We set out for the mountains early this morning.
After checking their maps one last time, the hikers set out for the summit before dawn.
The explorers set out for the uncharted territories, fully aware that the journey would take several months and offer little hope of return.
- leave for
- head for
- depart for
- start out for
- arrive at
- return from
- stay put
- Particles
- out for
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- set + out + for + object
usually followed by a noun representing a geographical destination or a goal.
contrast with 'set off', which focuses on the act of leaving, whereas 'set out for' emphasizes the destination.
They set out for to London.They set out for London.the preposition 'for' is followed directly by the destination noun, not an infinitive marker.
Last updated July 29, 2026